Robotic surgery for pancreatic disorders in children: Insights from two centers.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to present our experience in applying robotic-assisted surgery for managing pancreatic disorders in children.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on pediatric patients who underwent robot-assisted pancreatic procedures at two centers from April 2020 to August 2025. Information regarding preoperative status, intraoperative details, and postoperative outcomes was collected.

RESULTS

A total of 49 pediatric patients received pancreatic surgery during the study period, including 19 boys and 30 girls, with a mean age of 10.3 ± 2.6 years. Surgical indications were pancreatic masses (n = 46), pancreatic trauma (n = 2), and congenital hyperinsulinism (n = 1). The mean operation time was 233.4 ± 117.3 min, and average blood loss was 59.4 ± 81.9 ml. Six patients (12.2 %) converted to open surgery. The total complication rate was 38.8 % (19/49), with major complications (Clavien-Dindo ≥ III) in 6.1 % (3/49). Postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) occurred in 7 patients (14.3 %), all of which were Grade B; two of these patients required ultrasound-guided external drainage. Two patients were readmitted within 30 days for intra-abdominal infection. The median follow-up was 23.4 months (range 3-62 months), and all remained alive without complications.

CONCLUSION

Robot-assisted surgery for pediatric pancreatic disorders appears to be safe and feasible. The robotic platform can be employed for various complex pancreatic operations with satisfactory results.